Gaming device and method

ABSTRACT

A method and device for gaming, in which an primary game is played toward a winning outcome, but including a bonus event triggered by a particular outcome or outcomes. The bonus event is characterized by independently variable components which are controlled by the player, and which combine to produce an award.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The following invention is generally related to instrumentalities and methodologies in gaming devices. More specifically, the instant invention is directed to a gaming device having a primary game having not only a winning outcome, but also a triggering outcome for a bonus event. Most specifically, the bonus event allows independent manipulation of two component inputs, terminable at a fixed number or at the player's option, which combine to provide an award.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Most gaming establishments invest a substantial portion of their capital in gaming machines. Gaming machines generally allow a simple and solitary gaming experience. Consequently, it is difficult to retain players at any given machine due to the inevitable ennui that sets in after a few games. Thus, the universe of available machines offers a variety of gaming propositions, from traditional reel games to animated display games. While the primary games are developed to give players more options, the problem of boredom remains from repeatedly playing the same game.

[0003] Bonus games have been developed by some developers, offering a different proposition to avoid the banality of a single game. Many bonus games, however, are intricate, producing winning outcomes for the player only a minimal fraction of the time. Additionally, bonus games are often not “games” in the traditional sense. Often, they are self-operating, allowing the player to watch as the machine attempts to generate a winning bonus outcome, rather than allowing the player to have input in the game being played.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention is distinguishable over the prior art in a multiplicity of ways. For example, the instant invention provides a bonus event that combines two components to produce an award, in which the components may be randomly varied at the player's direction as the player attempts to achieve the highest possible award.

[0005] Further, the instant invention allows the player to exercise judgment in varying components with respect to the probability of enhanced awards.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Accordingly, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide a new and novel device and method for gaming, in which a player is offered a secondary gaming proposition for more chances at success.

[0007] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a device and method as characterized above which provides independent variation of components to produce an award.

[0008] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a device and method as characterized above that provides an experience similar to a table game, in which a player is allowed to exercise judgment in achieving awards.

[0009] Viewed from a first vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide a gaming device, comprising, in combination: a display, and a processor and random number generator operatively intercoupled and operatively coupled to said display, said random number generator providing an outcome to a primary game initiated on said display, said display having at least one outcome triggering a bonus event, said bonus event allowing play of a gaming proposition having first and second choice means wherein said each of said first and second choice means may be independently activated, said first and second choice means being combined to produce an award.

[0010] Viewed from a second vantage point, it is an object of the present invention to provide A method for gaming, the steps including: displaying plural award bestowers, operating at least one of the award bestowers, and determining a final award as a function of the award bestowers' position.

[0011] These and other objects will be made manifest when considering the following detailed specification when taken in conjunction with the appended drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012]FIG. 1 is a flowchart of the methodology according to the present invention.

[0013]FIG. 2 is a depiction of the apparatus associated therewith.

[0014]FIG. 3 is a depiction of a bonus screen according to the present invention.

[0015]FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the methodology of the bonus event.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] Considering the drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like parts throughout the various drawing figures, reference numeral 10 as shown in FIG. 2 is directed to the device according to the present invention.

[0017] In its essence, the device 10 includes a housing 16 which supports a visual display 2, preferably a video monitor, therewithin. The display 2 may include a window 8 for special messages or for incrementing counting of credits accumulated by the player. The device also includes an LED readout 4 for prompting the player and can provide similar verbiage as the window 8 or in lieu thereof, to stimulate the player. The device includes an inlet 6 for the reception therein for coins, currency or the like to auger in the inception of play. A plurality of decision-making buttons 12 are located on the face of the apparatus 10, preferable below the display 2 and a pull handle 14 can be used to initiate play as an alternative to supplement the decision-making buttons 12. A coin hopper 18 may be included to effectuate an output of an award due the player. The device 10 may have a top portion 32 with a display thereon having a motif correlative with the game to be played and can include a paytable. A plurality of speakers 34 may be included on the device for aural interaction with the player. The apparatus also includes a processor P coordinating all functions and a random number generator G operatively coupled thereto for generating outcomes. A card 9, having a read/write instrumentality 17 thereon, can be read via input 7 as a substitute for or supplement to credit transfers as well as player identification.

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1, the flowchart associated with the apparatus of FIGS. 2 and 3 can be explored. Initially, the player plays the game with a maximum bet or less. Preferably, but optionally, a maximum bet enables the features of the invention. Assume a maximum bet is required. If the player plays with less than a maximum bet, the ultimate outcome is determined by the symbols of the initial outcome. If the player opts to play with a maximum bet, then after the initial outcome is displayed, the player is immediately rewarded if the initial outcome corresponds to a value on an associated paytable. Whether or not the player wins, the initial outcome is compared to a predetermined set of outcomes that trigger a bonus event.

[0019] More specifically, and with reference to FIG. 3 and the flowchart of FIG. 4, greater details with respect to the video display 2 with regard to the bonus event of the preferred embodiment can be explored. The display 2 features a bonus event playfield, depicted in FIG. 3. The bonus event playfield features two independent award components, shown in FIG. 3 as a credit wheel 50 and a multiplier wheel 52. Upon entering the bonus event, the credit wheel 50 and the multiplier wheel 52 are spun and combined to produce an award value 54. Preferably, the player has a fixed number of allocated spins 56, and these spins may be allocated at the player's option. The player activates a particular wheel 50, 52 by selecting either the credit spin toggle 58 or the multiplier spin toggle 60. When the player so selects, the indicated wheel is spun and the total number of allocated spins 56 decrements by one. The bonus event ends when the player has exhausted all allocated spins 56. Alternatively, the player may choose to end the bonus event at an earlier time by selecting the cash out option 62. The player is then awarded the number of credits corresponding to the orientation of the wheels 50, 52 at that time and the award value 54 displayed. After the end of the bonus event, the player may continue playing the primary game.

[0020] Moreover, having thus described the invention, it should be apparent that numerous structural modifications and adaptations may be resorted to without departing from the scope and fair meaning of the instant invention as set forth hereinabove and as described hereinbelow by the claims. 

I claim:
 1. A gaming device, comprising, in combination: a display, and a processor and random number generator operatively intercoupled and operatively coupled to said display, said random number generator providing an outcome to a primary game initiated on said display, said display having at least one outcome triggering a bonus event, said bonus event allowing play of a gaming proposition having first and second choice means wherein said each of said first and second choice means may be independently activated, said first and second choice means being combined to produce an award.
 2. A method for gaming, the steps including: displaying plural award bestowers, operating at least one of the award bestowers, and determining a final award as a function of the award bestowers' position. 